I Quit Being a Stepmother (Cypress Gem) novel Chapter 171

George’s body immediately tensed. His hands braced against the bed as he looked down at Rhea clinging to his waist, refusing to let

1. go.

Rhea’s eyes were shut, and her cheek was pressed against his chest.

George had no choice but to lift her again. He then turned around so he could sit on the bed.

Rhea settled fully on his lap. Half–dazed, she nuzzled him softly.

George frowned. “You-”

“Mom…”

George froze.

“I’m sorry…” Rhea’s tears soaked a small patch of his shirt, warm against his skin.

George suddenly laughed. “What are you sorry for?”

“For letting you and Dad down… For embarrassing you…” Her tears came faster with every word.

George held her with one arm and reached for a tissue on the nightstand with the other. He wiped her tears with the same careful patience one might use on a child.

“Don’t cry. I forgive you.”

Rhea exhaled slowly. With her eyes closed, she looked like she was half–asleep. “Really?”

“Yes.”

Her voice turned soft and plaintive. “Then, hold me. Hold me while I sleep…‘

11

An hour later, George lay on his side, his clothes all rumpled.

Meanwhile, Rhea nestled quietly in his arms, sleeping peacefully.

He couldn’t pull his hand away, and her arms were still wrapped tightly around his waist.

On the phone, Nathan’s voice was sharp with accusation. “What are you doing? Why didn’t you pick up your phone?”

George turned the volume down and replied simply, “I was sleeping.”

Out of nowhere, Nathan asked, “With whom?”

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Chapter 171

+25 BONUS

George’s gaze dropped to Rhea’s shadowed face beside him. He averted his eyes and softly asked, ” What do you want?”

Nathan had only asked that question because he had had a bit too much to drink, and he regretted it immediately afterward.

Nevertheless, he thought that George’s tone was off. He sensed that someone else was there with George. Nathan was certain of it.

He then cleared his throat and asked, “Are you dating someone? Which family is she from?”

“Seriously, what do you want?” George repeated.

His voice was soft, so Nathan assumed the woman was asleep. Normally, George’s tone would have been far harsher.

“Nothing. I just missed you,” Nathan said.

George was speechless for a second. “I don’t need you missing me.‘

11

“What, can’t I miss you? I was so angry today. Can you come out and drink with me?”

“No.”

Nathan froze, his drunkenness suddenly gone. What kind of woman could make George refuse to keep him company?

“Why?” he asked deliberately. “Is that woman really that important? You’re abandoning me for her?

George didn’t hesitate. “Right now, she is.”

“Our friendship’s over.” Nathan hung up decisively.

…

The next day, Rhea woke with a strange emptiness, as if she were walking on clouds. Her head ached.

She opened her eyes and stared at the unfamiliar ceiling.

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